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Are you searching for the best domain registrar to register your website’s domain in 2024? Domain registrars are like the caretakers of web addresses, responsible for handling and organizing domain names for all websites globally.
Choosing the right domain registrar to register your business’s domain name is a big deal. Getting a domain is the initial move toward making your business thrive, and it’s crucial to team up with a provider that’s dependable, safe, and trustworthy.
Our goal is to assist you in choosing the one that suits your needs the best. So, we’ve done the legwork and, in this article, we’re going to share with you the 10 best domain registrars in 2024.
Quick Overview
If you’d rather not read through the details and want our top recommendation, we either suggest Domain.com and Namecheap for just buying a domain name or Bluehost if you plan to build a website since they offer a free domain name.
How to Pick the Right Domain Registrar?
When choosing a place to register your domain, it’s crucial to think about a few key things. First off, check the types of domain name endings they offer, like .org or .com. Also, find out how long you can lock in your domain with each provider.
On the pricing page of a domain registration company, you’ll see different options. They might let you choose from various top-level domains (TLDs) such as .com or .net. But not all vendors offer all the options, so make sure they have what you need. Keep in mind that some domain endings might be pricier than others.
When looking at the prices, remember that many companies offer a lower price for the first year, but the renewal cost could be higher. For example, Name.com starts at $8.99 and then goes up to $15.99 for a .com TLD.
Another important thing is to check how long you can register your domain. Usually, it’s a minimum of 1 year, but some providers let you register for up to 10 years. It’s a good idea to go for a longer registration period to save money and avoid the hassle of renewing every year.
10 Best Domain Registrar in 2024
1. Domain.com
Domain.com stands out as one of the leading domain registrars globally, supporting a variety of Top-Level Domains (TLDs) and numerous country-code domains, including co.uk. The company is known for its excellent customer support and straightforward process for finding and registering multiple domain names.
Best Features for Domain Registration:
Domain.com gives businesses ample choices when selecting from a diverse range of domain options. The control panel offers complete DNS control for your domain name, and the platform ensures a simple migration process if you wish to transfer an existing domain.
All domains from Domain.com come with free SSL (Let’s Encrypt), adding an extra layer of security. For those looking to enhance domain security further, options like SiteLock are available. The domain registrar also offers various bonus features, such as a user-friendly website builder, online store builder, professional email with Google Workspace, and web hosting. Specialized WordPress hosting is also an option.
For added confidence in running your business, Domain.com provides WHOIS privacy and protection against fraud, along with malware scanning and blacklist monitoring. The 24/7 support adds an extra layer of reassurance.
Pros:
- Range of bonus features, including professional email and website building.
- Abundance of security options like SSL and SiteLock.
- Excellent customer service for peace of mind.
Cons:
- Additional cost for bonus domain privacy.
- Domain transfer may take some time, up to 7 days.
Pricing:
Determining the pricing for your domain on Domain.com might be a bit complex, but generally, you can expect to pay around $9.99 for the first year of a .com site, followed by a $15.99 renewal fee. Privacy and protection cost an additional $8.99 per year. Premium domain prices can vary significantly based on your requirements.
2. NameCheap
As a leading ICANN-accredited domain registrar, NameCheap is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable platform to buy domain names. Known for its affordability and convenience, NameCheap supports various services, including domain transfers and the acquisition of premium names.
Best Features for Domain Registration:
NameCheap goes beyond basic domain purchasing, offering features like quick and free domain migration within 30 minutes – a notable advantage compared to competitors. The platform also provides website hosting options, including WordPress hosting and VPS.
Emphasizing value and affordability, NameCheap frequently presents offers on services like shared EU hosting and free design tools. The website’s promo section even includes free trials of VPN services.
NameCheap covers the essentials expected from a domain name and hosting provider, such as professional private email, budget-friendly SSL certificates, and more. Advanced security features like 2-factor authentication add an extra layer of protection.
Pros:
- Free and rapid hosting and domain migration.
- 24/7 live chat support with experts and fast ticket response time.
- Convenient array of advanced security features.
Cons:
- DDoS protection comes at an extra cost.
- No phone support is available.
Pricing:
NameCheap’s pricing starts at $8.18 per year for a .com domain during the initial purchase of your new website. Following that, a renewal fee of approximately $13.98 per year applies. The exact cost of your domain depends on your chosen Top-Level Domain (TLD) and the duration of access. New modern domain names may have higher costs.
3. Bluehost
Bluehost is one of the top choices for purchasing a domain name online today. As a globally recognized website hosting provider, Bluehost enjoys a strong reputation in the digital world.
Best Features for Domain Registration:
Bluehost offers a diverse range of domain options, including popular choices like .com and .org. The convenience of an auto-renewal system adds to its appeal.
Managing your domain addresses and sites is made simple with Bluehost’s user-friendly control panel. Advanced features like DNS management across multiple domains and “Domain Lock” for preventing unauthorized transfers enhance the overall experience. Bluehost’s commitment to excellent customer support is evident through various channels such as phone, chat, and email assistance. Bonus features like automatic domain forwarding and professional email further distinguish Bluehost.
For beginners, Bluehost provides a user-friendly experience along with additional perks not commonly found with other budget-friendly domain options. Pre-installed WordPress in the control panel, malware protection for your website, and the option to add unlimited subdomains are notable advantages.
Pros:
- Excellent customer support through chat, emails, and calls.
- Free domain name included with all hosting plans for beginners.
- Free SSL certificate (although WHOIS protection is an additional cost).
Cons:
- Renewal costs can be relatively high.
- The site transfer process can be complex and time-consuming.
Pricing:
The initial cost for a .com domain from Bluehost is approximately $12.99 for the first year, with a renewal price of $18.99. Bundling hosting and domain access can provide some cost savings.
Acquiring hosting from Bluehost not only grants you a free domain but also includes an SSL certificate for the first year.
4. Hostinger
Hostinger is a great choice if you want to register a domain and easily host your website. It’s perfect for quickly launching your new online presence. With Hostinger, you can choose from a variety of popular domain extensions like .net or .store, and transferring an existing domain to Hostinger is just a few clicks away.
Best Features for Domain Registration
Hostinger stands out as one of the best website hosting providers that also offers domain registration. When you sign up for hosting with Hostinger, you even get a free domain name for the first year. They provide options for privacy through WHOIS protection and SSL certification, although there is an extra cost for safeguarding your data. It’s reassuring to know that Hostinger is accredited by ICANN, ensuring a reliable service.
Managing your domain and website is made easy with Hostinger’s user-friendly interface. Plus, they offer 24/7 live technical support, assisting whenever you need it.
Pros:
- Wide variety of domain options and extensions to choose from.
- Excellent live chat and 24/7 customer support.
- Conveniently access hosting and purchase a domain together.
Cons:
- Additional fee for WHOIS protection.
- Some domain extensions (TLDs) can be a bit pricey.
Pricing:
For Hostinger, the pricing starts at $9.99 for the first year of hosting a .com domain, followed by $13.99 per year thereafter. There are hosting options like cloud hosting available at $9.99 per month, and it includes a free domain. If you want WHOIS protection, it comes at an extra cost of $5 per year.
5. GoDaddy
Easily one of the most recognized domain registrar options, GoDaddy simplifies the process of acquiring a diverse selection of domain names along with hosting functionality.
Users can utilize the domain name generator offered by GoDaddy to generate ideas for creating a new website.
Best Domain Registration Features:
GoDaddy stands out by providing users with a broad array of domain name options, boasting over 500 extensions to choose from. The platform allows for the migration of existing domain names to GoDaddy, with a $7.99 fee for .com Top-Level Domains (TLDs).
Unique features of GoDaddy include the “Domain Broker,” a service that aids in purchasing domains already owned by other companies with the support of a specialist. Bulk purchasing of domain names is also supported, enabling users to create lists of keywords for their domains and upload them as CSV files.
As the largest domain registrar globally, GoDaddy supports over 84 million domains, each coming with free privacy protection forever. Additional tools, such as real-time monitoring, ensure your domain functions seamlessly.
Pros:
- Easy access to a wide range of individual and bulk domain names.
- Enhanced support for SEO to improve Google ranking.
- GoDaddy auctions, appraisal tools, and brokers provide more domain name options.
Cons:
- Some features may have a slight learning curve.
Pricing:
GoDaddy maintains simplicity and transparency in its domain pricing. A .com domain costs $9.99 for the first year, followed by $9.99 annually thereafter, with free included protection. Additionally, users can bundle website hosting, a website builder, and their domain name for a seamless experience.
6. Network Solutions
Network Solutions is an excellent choice for those seeking the best domain registration experience, known for its high reputation as a registrar. The platform provides access to all common Top-Level Domains (TLDs), including .info, .com, and .net. In addition to domain registration, Network Solutions also offers web hosting services and domain transfer.
Best Domain Registration Features:
Network Solutions offers a variety of tools to facilitate the search and purchase of the perfect domain name. The platform includes a convenient domain name search feature, including options for “bulk search.” Users can also explore premium domain names for additional options.
As a pioneer in domain name registration, Network Solutions provides unique features not commonly found elsewhere, such as bonus IT support and website building with robust security tools. Domain name protection is in place, securing your domain for up to one year in case of renewal challenges.
Specialized services include website design and copy options for assistance in building a new blog or eCommerce site. Users also have access to a range of email and productivity tools, supporting Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
Pros:
- Option to register your domain for an extended period (up to 100 years).
- Phone and live chat support for comprehensive customer guidance.
- Abundance of email, marketing, and website-building tools and services.
Cons:
- Domain renewal costs can be relatively expensive.
- Protection features come with an additional cost.
Pricing:
Network Solutions is positioned as one of the pricier domain name registrars, with the starting price for a .com domain at $20 for the first year, increasing to $37.99 per year thereafter. Additional costs apply for features like WHOIS protection ($23.88 per year), as well as hosting, email and marketing tools, and SSL certificates.
7. HostGator
HostGator stands out as a hosting provider and domain registrar in one, providing a quick and efficient way to establish your online presence. Similar to many hosting providers, HostGator offers free access to your domain name for the first year when you sign up for hosting with the brand.
Best Domain Registration Features:
HostGator allows users the flexibility to either purchase a new domain name or easily transfer an existing domain into their system. The inclusion of domain locking helps prevent unauthorized transfers.
The user-friendly control panel streamlines the management of all aspects of your domain in one dashboard, with comprehensive DNS management available. For a small additional fee, users can protect their personal information from being visible in the WHOIS database.
HostGator provides email forwarding as part of the domain purchase, along with a range of customer service options, including social media support, phone, chat, and a robust knowledge base for self-service.
Pros:
- Convenient access to hosting and domain name management on a single dashboard.
- Excellent 24/7 customer service.
- Free domain offered with select hosting packages.
Cons:
- May not be the most scalable service for larger companies.
- Renewal costs can be relatively high.
Pricing:
A .com domain can be purchased from HostGator for $12.95 for the first year, with renewal costs at $18.99 per year. WHOIS privacy protection is available for an additional $14.95 per year. Alternatively, a simple shared hosting plan is available for $2.75 per month, including a free domain for the first year.
8. BuyDomain
BuyDomain stands out among domain registrars because it gives you a sneak peek into the inner workings of each domain you search. This helps you figure out if your website will be effective. If a desired name is not available, you can bid for it.
Best Domain Registration Features:
Wide Variety: BuyDomain.com offers a variety of domain names with different extensions like .com, .net, and .org. You can even do bulk registration, buying up to 500 domains at once.
Privacy Protection: With every purchase, you get basic privacy protection. Your information is kept secure.
Forwarding and Masking: Domain forwarding and masking come as standard with every purchase. This allows you to control where your domain points and mask your details.
Domain Locking: Prevent unwanted transfers with domain locking. Your domain stays safe and secure.
DNS Control: You have complete control over your DNS records, making it easy to manage your email, sub-domains, and website location from a simple control panel.
Monitoring Tools: Keep track of your domain’s status with monitoring tools. Get instant notifications if something goes wrong.
Auto-Renewal: Your domains and hosting stay active year after year with auto-renewal.
Hosting Options: BuyDomain offers various hosting options, including dedicated servers and WordPress hosting.
Pros:
- All-in-One Solution: Hosting, marketing, security, and domains are all available from one vendor.
- Included Protections: Basic WHOIS protection and domain locking are included with every purchase.
- User-Friendly Control: An easy-to-use admin center for DNS control.
Cons:
- Limited Extensions: BuyDomain doesn’t offer the widest range of extensions compared to some alternatives.
Pricing:
Affordable: Prices start at $12.99 per year for a .com domain, with a $12.99 renewal fee. Privacy is included at no extra cost. Additional costs apply for extra security or hosting.
9. Register.com
Register.com, founded in 1994 by Peter Forman as Forman Interactive Corporation, initially focused on website-building software. Over the next five years, it shifted its focus to domain name registration and web hosting. In 1999, recognizing the growing importance of these services, the company rebranded as Register.com.
Today, based in New York City, Register.com provides a wide range of products, offering more than 50 options to its customers. It manages over 2.9 million domain names and serves hundreds of thousands of customers. Web.com acquired Register.com in 2010.
Best Domain Registration Features:
Diverse Domain Services: Register.com offers a comprehensive range of domain-related services, providing users with various options to meet their specific needs.
Web Design and Development Services: In addition to domain registration, Register.com extends its offerings to include web design and development services. This allows users to build and enhance their online presence effectively.
Hosting Options for Linux and Windows: Register.com provides hosting solutions for both Linux and Windows platforms, giving users flexibility and compatibility based on their preferences and requirements.
Developer-Friendly Environment: The platform is designed to be developer-friendly, catering to the needs of those who have a deeper understanding of web development and coding.
Pros:
- Extensive Domain Services: Register.com provides a variety of domain-related services.
- Web Design and Development: The company offers services for web design and development.
- Hosting Options: Both Linux and Windows hosting options are available.
- Developer-Friendly: Register.com is suitable for developers.
Cons:
- Not the Cheapest: While reliable, it may not be the most budget-friendly hosting option.
- No Advanced Hosting: Advanced web hosting features may be lacking.
- Website Navigation: The website can be challenging to navigate due to the abundance of product offerings.
Pricing:
Register.com follows a straightforward pricing structure for domain extensions:
All domain extensions start at $5.00 per year per domain.
Popular extensions like .com, .org, .net, and .info are all priced the same.
This pricing approach is beneficial for those on a budget or those looking for specific extensions. With a flat rate of $5.00 for the year, users can easily register their domain and start their online journey.
10. InMotion
InMotion Hosting is a big player in web hosting, serving everyone from beginners to large companies. Known for reliability, quality customer service, and a wide range of services, they cater to diverse hosting needs.
Best Domain Registration Features:
- Performance: InMotion Hosting ensures speedy website loading.
- Reliability: Your website stays available with minimal downtime.
- Customer Support: Dependable 24/7 support for quick assistance.
- Features: Comprehensive tools to build your website.
- Pricing: Competitive rates with a generous 90-day money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- 90-Day Money Back Guarantee: InMotion Hosting offers an extended money-back guarantee, providing confidence to users.
- Free Website Transfer: They seamlessly transfer your site from another host for free.
- Data Center Choice: Pick a data center location on the East or West Coast, optimizing site speed.
- SSD Drive Storage: Faster website loading with SSD drives, included in all plans.
- Free SSL Certificate: Essential for eCommerce, SSL is included, saving you extra costs.
Cons:
- Phone Verification: Non-U.S. customers may find phone verification challenging.
- No Monthly Billing for Starter Plans: Starter plans require upfront payment for 1 or 2 years. Monthly billing for Pro plans incurs a setup fee.
- Not the Cheapest: While competitively priced, InMotion Hosting isn’t the cheapest option.
Pricing:
- Launch Plan: Starting at $3.99 per month, inclusive of domain registration.
- Pro Plan: Recommended for businesses at $13.99 per month, with additional domain privacy protection at $12.99 per year.
- Money-Back Guarantee: A reassuring 90-day money-back guarantee for dissatisfied customers.
Final Verdict
In the vast landscape of domain registrars, making the right choice hinges on individual goals and requirements. After thoroughly exploring the 10 best domain registrars in 2024, two clear recommendations emerge based on distinct needs.
For Straightforward Domain Purchase
If your primary goal is acquiring a domain name with ease, Domain.com and Namecheap prove to be stellar choices. Their streamlined processes and commitment to domain-centric services make them ideal for those focusing solely on securing a unique web address.
For Those Venturing into Website Building
On the other hand, if your vision extends beyond domain acquisition to building a website, Bluehost takes the lead. Bluehost offers a complimentary domain name with its hosting plans, offering an enticing all-in-one solution for those embarking on a web development journey.
The landscape of domain registration is dynamic, and personal preferences play a crucial role in the decision-making process. Whether simplicity in domain acquisition or a comprehensive package for website creation is your priority, the 10 best domain registrars reviewed in 2024 present diverse options to cater to your specific online aspirations.
Best Domain Registrars FAQs
How Can I Keep a Domain Name Forever?
When you register a domain, you decide how many years you want to own it. You can keep it permanently by renewing it before it expires, usually for 1-5 years at a time. If you forget to renew, others might take it. All registrars have auto-renewal options to prevent this. To keep a domain forever:
- Ensure your contact info with the registrar is correct.
- Set up auto-renewal before the expiration date.
- Make sure your payment details are up-to-date.
- Why Should I Use Domain Privacy and Protection (WHOIS Privacy)?
When you buy a domain, you can enable privacy and protection. With this, your personal info (name, email, address) won’t be visible to the public. If you skip this, people can easily find your contact details. It’s wise to enable it to protect your info from spammers. Some registrars include this in the domain registration price, while others charge extra.
Does the Choice of Domain Registrar Matter?
Absolutely, the choice of a domain registrar matters. Not all registrars are the same, as they vary in domain extensions, features, prices, and most importantly, the quality of support and network reliability.
For businesses, the reliability of your domain registrar is crucial because they handle DNS, which directs users to your website. If your registrar faces network issues, users won’t reach your site even if your hosting server is online.
It’s vital to opt for a registrar with solid support and a good reputation, especially during emergencies.
Our Recommendations
Domain.com, Bluehost, and GoDaddy: These are recommended for their reliable infrastructure and security.
Caution Against Certain Registrars
Avoid NameBright and Name.com: We advise steering clear of registrars like NameBright due to deceptive practices that restrict users from transferring domains away and Name.com considering fraudulent transaction history.
Which Domain Registrar Offers the Best Prices?
For those seeking the most economical option, nothing beats free. In this regard, the two most cost-effective domain registrars are Bluehost and Hostinger, as they provide a free domain name when you purchase web hosting from them.
However, WPBeginner users can also take advantage of additional savings on Domain.com using our exclusive coupon code. This makes the prices at Domain.com very appealing for those looking for budget-friendly options.
What If the Domain Name I Want is Taken?
If the domain you want is already registered by someone else:
Check WHOIS for their contact details. If privacy is off, you can email them to inquire about buying.
If you can’t find their contact info or they don’t respond, use a domain broker service to help with the process.
How Can I Get a Free Domain Name?
You can get a free domain by registering it with a hosting provider. Many providers, like Bluehost, offer a free domain when you sign up for a hosting plan. Check our web hosting guide for a list of providers offering free domains.
Which Domain Registrar is the Safest?
All domain registrars are required to adhere to ICANN policies, ensuring a baseline of safety. However, there are extra measures you can take to enhance the security of your domain and protect it from potential theft.
These precautions involve:
- Domain Lock: Implementing this feature prevents unauthorized transfers of your domain.
- Two-Factor Authentication and Security: Opt for a registrar that offers robust security features.
Based on our experience, both Bluehost and GoDaddy are considered among the safest domain registrars.
For enterprise-level needs, businesses often place their trust in Cloudflare Domains and MarkMonitor for enhanced safety measures.
What Should I Do After Buying a Domain Name?
Once you have a great domain, follow these steps:
Sign up for web hosting: This makes your website available on the internet. Our guide helps you choose the right hosting.
Create a website: It’s easy! Our step-by-step guide gets you started in minutes.
Optimize your website: After creating it, optimize it so people can find it online. A digital marketing course can teach you everything about website optimization and marketing.
